Variations in clinical presentation, frequency of hemophagocytosis and clinical behavior of intravascular lymphoma diagnosed in different geographical regions

Cutaneous B-Cell Lymphomas

Primary cutaneous B-cell lymphomas represent a type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the skin without evidence of extracutaneous involvement at the time of diagnosis. According to the 2018 World Health Organization-the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer classification, primary cutaneous B-cell lymphomas include primary cutaneous marginal zone lymphoma, primary cutaneous follicle center lymphoma, primary cutaneous diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, leg type, intravascular large B-cell lymphoma, and Epstein-Barr virus+ mucocutaneous ulcer (provisional). Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of the updated literature on these entities, including clinical presentation, histopathology, immunophenotype, molecular genetics, prognosis, and treatment.

Dengue-Associated Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis: A Narrative Review of Its Identification and Treatment

Dengue's lack of specific treatments beyond supportive care prompts a focus on uncovering additional pathophysiological factors. Dengue-associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), characterized by dysregulated macrophage activation and cytokine storm, remains underexplored despite its potential to worsen disease severity and mortality. While rare, dengue-associated HLH disproportionately affects severe cases, significantly impacting mortality rates. To mitigate high mortality, early identification and familiarity with dengue-associated HLH are imperative for prompt treatment by clinicians. This narrative review therefore aims to examine the current clinical and therapeutic knowledge on dengue-associated HLH, and act as a resource for clinicians to improve their management of HLH associated with severe dengue. Dengue-associated HLH should be considered for all cases of severe dengue and may be suspected based on the presence of prolonged or recurrent fever for >7 days, or anemia without intravascular hemolysis or massive bleeding. Diagnosis relies on fulfilling at least five of the eight HLH-2004 criteria. Treatment predominantly involves short courses (3-4 days) of high-dose steroids (e.g., dexamethasone 10 mg/m2), with additional therapies considered in more severe presentations. Notably, outcomes can be favorable with steroid therapy alone.

Cutaneous Intravascular Hematolymphoid Entities: A Review

Intravascular lymphomas are rare disease conditions that exhibit neoplastic lymphoid cells that are confined mainly to the lumens of small capillaries and medium-sized vessels. The majority of the intravascular lymphomas are of B-cell origin, but they can include NK/T-cell and CD30+ immunophenotypes. In the histologic differential diagnosis are benign proliferations such as intralymphatic histiocytosis and intravascular atypical CD30+ T-cell proliferation. In this review, we discuss the clinical, histopathologic, and molecular findings of intravascular B-cell lymphoma, intravascular NK/T-cell lymphoma, intralymphatic histiocytosis, and benign atypical intravascular CD30+ T-cell proliferation.

A Retrospective Review of Secondary Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and Dengue-associated HLH from a Teaching Hospital in Singapore

Real-world data on the outcome of Asian patients with secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), especially on dengue-associated HLH, are limited to small case series. This is a retrospective records review of adult patients with secondary HLH between 2015 and 2020. Thirty-two adult patients were followed up for a median of 6.6 months (range 0.1 - 75 months). 15 had underlying lymphomas, and 12 had viral infections. Hemophagocytosis was seen in 28 of 29 patients with a bone marrow biopsy. 100% and 76.5% of patients with and without an underlying malignancy required HLH-directed therapy and blood product transfusion. 12 of 15 patients with lymphomas were treated with additional chemotherapy. Patients with malignancy-associated HLH had poorer survival than non-malignancy-associated HLH (median overall survival (OS) 1.5 months versus not reached, p-value 0.003). The 1-year survival rates of patients with malignancy-associated HLH, HLH with unknown etiologies, and infection-associated HLH were 0.133 (95% CI: 0.036 - 0.484), 0.400 (95% CI: 0.137 - 1.000) and 0.833 (95% CI: 0.647 - 1.000), respectively. Malignancy significantly increased the risk of death compared to infection-associated HLH (HR 9.37, p-value 0.003). Eight patients were diagnosed with dengue-associated HLH with a median HSCORE of 240 (98-99% probability of HLH). Their mean ferritin was 34,740 ng/mL. Three patients required blood product transfusion, 5 required corticosteroids and/or etoposide, with a median duration of treatment of 31 days. Their overall survival rate was 87.5%. Our study highlights the stark contrast in the survival of secondary HLH patients with and without an underlying malignancy. We also present one of the world's most extensive case series of dengue-associated HLH.

Liver Dysfunction in Adult Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis: A Narrative Review

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare, life-threatening condition that has been increasingly recognized in adults and is characterized by a hyperinflammatory state due to immune dysregulation. Its nonspecific presentation, the lack of clinician familiarity given its rarity, and shared clinical features with sepsis and other syndromes can lead to a delay in diagnosis and a poor prognosis. Significant liver function abnormalities as the initial manifestation of HLH are uncommon and can range from mild elevation of aminotransferases to fulminant hepatic failure with high mortality rates. The authors encountered a case of adult HLH mimicking acute viral hepatitis in which a markedly elevated ferritin level led to a prompt diagnosis, early initiation of treatment, and a successful outcome. Clinicians, including gastroenterologists and hepatologists, are often called upon to evaluate patients with abnormal liver tests and may lack experience in the early diagnosis and management of liver dysfunction in the context of HLH. Thus, we expand our reporting to a narrative review of literature which explores the pathogenesis of HLH, challenges associated with its diagnosis, previous reports of liver disease associated with the syndrome, recommended treatments for the familial and adult variations including the role of liver transplantation, and the outcomes of these treatments.

Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis in the Context of Hematological Malignancies and Solid Tumors

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) has been described for decades in association with malignancies (M-HLH). While its mechanism is unknown, M-HLH has a poor prognosis, ranging from 10% to 30% overall survival. Mature T-cell lymphomas, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, and Hodgkin lymphoma, with or without viral co-triggers such as Epstein-Barr virus, are among the most frequent underlying entities. Most M-HLH cases occur at the presentation of malignancy, but they may also occur during therapy as a result of immune compromise from chemotherapy (HLH in the context of immune compromise, IC-HLH) and (typically) disordered response to infection or after immune-activating therapies (Rx-HLH, also known as cytokine release syndrome, CRS). IC-HLH typically occurs months after diagnosis in the context of fungal, bacterial, or viral infection, though it may occur without an apparent trigger. Rx-HLH can be associated with checkpoint blockade, chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy, or bispecific T-cell engaging therapy. Until recently, M-HLH diagnosis and treatment strategies were extrapolated from familial HLH (F-HLH), though optimized diagnostic and therapeutic treatment strategies are emerging.

Large B-Cell Lymphomas in the 5th Edition of the WHO-Classification of Haematolymphoid Neoplasms-Updated Classification and New Concepts

The family/class of the large B-cell lymphomas (LBCL) in the 5th edition of the World Health Organization (WHO) classification of haematolymphoid tumors (WHO-HAEM5) features only a few major changes as compared to the 4th edition. In most entities, there are only subtle changes, many of them only representing some minor modifications in diagnostic terms. Major changes have been made in the diffuse large B-cell lymphomas (DLBCL)/high-grade B-cell lymphomas (HGBL) associated with MYC and BCL2 and/or BCL6 rearrangements. This category now consists of MYC and BCL2 rearranged cases exclusively, while the MYC/BCL6 double hit lymphomas now constitute genetic subtypes of DLBCL, not otherwise specified (NOS) or of HGBL, NOS. Other major changes are the conceptual merger of lymphomas arising in immune-privileged sites and the description of LBCL arising in the setting of immune dysregulation/deficiency. In addition, novel findings concerning underlying biological mechanisms in the pathogenesis of the different entities are provided.

Intravascular NK/T-Cell Lymphoma: What We Know about This Diagnostically Challenging, Aggressive Disease

Intravascular lymphoma is a form of lymphoid malignancy characterized by neoplastic cells growing almost exclusively within the lumina of small- to medium-sized blood vessels. Most cases are of B-cell origin with rare cases of natural killer or T-cell lineage. Extranodal sites are affected, mainly the skin and central nervous system, although any organ may be involved. Intravascular NK/T-cell lymphoma deserves special attention because of its clinicopathologic features and the need for adequate immunophenotyping combined with clonality test for a proper diagnosis. Moreover, intravascular NK/T-cell lymphoma is strongly linked to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which is considered to play a role in tumorigenesis and to be responsible for the aggressive behavior of the disease. In this paper, we review the current knowledge on this rare lymphoma and, in particular, the most recent advances about its molecular landscape. The main distinguishing features with other EBV-related entities, such as extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma, EBV-positive primary nodal T/NK-cell lymphoma, and aggressive NK-cell leukemia, are discussed to help pathologists obtain the correct diagnosis and consequently develop an adequate and prompt therapy response.

Acute Myeloid Leukemia in a Cholecystectomy Specimen

A 76-year-old man was admitted into the ER for upper abdominal pain. Physical exam and CT scan confirmed acute cholecystitis with multiple cholelithis, and a cholecystectomy was performed. The cholecystectomy specimen showed chronic cholecystitis with exuberant inflammatory infiltrate. On careful examination of the specimen, large atypical cells with vesicular chromatin, folded nuclei, and inconspicuous red nucleoli were noted percolating into the gallbladder wall and lining vascular spaces. These cells were positive for CD117, CD43, and myeloperoxidase and negative for CD20 and CD3 stains. Further workup including peripheral blood flow cytometry confirmed a population of circulating immature myeloid precursors comprising about 38% of events. This is a rare case of acute myeloid leukemia that came to clinical attention by incidentally involving the gallbladder.

Clinical Characteristics, Prognostic Indicators, and Survival Outcomes in Intravascular Lymphoma: Mayo Clinic Experience (2003-2018)

Intravascular lymphoma (IVL) is a rare extranodal non‐Hodgkin lymphoma. We performed a retrospective analysis of 55 IVL patients who were treated at our institution 2003–2018. Median age at diagnosis was 68 years, and 64% were males. The most frequent presenting symptoms were skin rash 43% and weight loss 30%. MRI brain on IVL patients with CNS involvement (CNS‐IVL) showed multifocal involvement in 76% (13/17). 89% (17/19) of non‐CNS‐IVL patients with abnormal FDG‐PET had biopsy of an avid lesion resulting in definitive diagnosis. The top diagnostic biopsy site was the bone marrow (45%). 56% had multiorgan involvement. Based on CNS involvement, 36.5% (20/55) had CNS‐IVL and 63.5% (35/55) had non‐CNS‐IVL. CNS‐IVL group consists of clinically isolated CNS involvement (CNS‐only IVL) (22%;12/55) and mixed clinical CNS and peripheral site involvement (M‐IVL) (14.5%; 8/55). Non‐CNS‐IVL group consists of clinically isolated skin involvement (skin‐only IVL) (9%; 5/55) and peripheral IVL with or without skin involvement (P‐IVL); (54.5%; 30/55). Skin involvement was predominantly in the lower extremities. Pathologically, 89% (48/54) were B‐cell IVL. Rituximab + high‐dose methotrexate‐based regimen were used in 75% (12/16) of CNS‐IVL patients and RCHOP in 60% (17/28) of non‐CNS‐IVL patients. Estimated 5‐year progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) for the entire cohort were 38.6% and 52%, respectively. Skin‐only IVL was associated with excellent survival. Platelet count <150x10⁹/L, age > 60Y, and treatment without Rituximab were poor prognostic factors. Further research is necessary to identify novel therapies.

Clinical presentation, outcome, and prognostic markers in patients with intravascular large B-cell lymphoma, a lymphoma study association (LYSA) retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (lVLBCL) is a very rare type of large B-cell lymphoma.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study on IVLBCL patients treated from 2000 to 2016 in LYSA cooperative group centers.

RESULTS

Sixty-five patients were identified in 23 centers. Median age at diagnosis was 69 years (range 23-92). Thirty-four patients (64%) had an IPI score >3 and 40 patients (67%) had a performance status ≥2. The most frequent extra-nodal locations were bone marrow (n = 34; 52%), central nervous system (n = 25; 39%), and skin (n = 21; 33%). Nodal involvement and endocrine system were observed in 34% (n = 22) and 18% (n = 12) of all cases, respectively. Twenty-six patients (41%) had macrophage activation syndrome. Tumor cells were frequently CD5 positive (52%) with a non-germinal center origin (86%). BCL2 was expressed in 87% of all samples analyzed (n = 20) and 43% of patients had a MYC/BCL2 double expression. Fifty-six patients were treated with a regimen of chemotherapy containing rituximab, among whom 73% reached complete remission. The median progression-free survival (PFS) and median overall survival (OS) were 29.4 months and 63.8 months, respectively. History of autoimmune disorder (Hazard ratio [HR] 3.3 [1.4-7.8]; p < 0.01), nodal involvement (HR 2.6 [1.4-5.1]; p < 0.01), lack of anthracycline (HR 0.1 [0-0.4] for use; p < 0.001), or no intensification at first-line regimen (p = 0.02) were associated with worse PFS. High-dose methotrexate use was not associated with better PFS or OS.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study highlights the aggressive clinical picture of IVLBCL, in particular the frequency of macrophage activation syndrome, and the need for new therapies despite a response to R-CHOP-like regimen similar to non-intravascular diffuse large B-cell lymphomas.

Intravascular Large B Cell Lymphoma of the Breast: A Rare Entity

Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) is a rare and high-grade disease of neoplastic lymphoid cells within the vascular lumina of small- to medium-sized vessels. The disease carries a grim prognosis despite robust treatment protocols. We discuss the case of a 58-year-old female who presented with mammographic screening abnormality which led to more investigations and ultimately to this diagnosis. The patient had no prior history of a lymphoma or in situ and invasive carcinoma of the breast. To our knowledge, IVLBCL of the breast is a very rare and an unusual location for this type of a lymphoma and so far, only five reported cases. Through our case report, we not only discuss the case but also review literature on this rare entity.

Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma: representative cases and approach to diagnosis

Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (ILBCL) is a subtype of non-Hodgkin's large B-cell lymphoma that is characterised by neoplastic lymphocyte proliferation within the lumen of small blood vessels, which may occur without an extracellular tumour mass or peripheral blood involvement. This report highlights some of the diagnostic issues for ILBCL, and how it can be approached. The two cases described below highlight two significantly different presentations, one with predominately neurological phenomena, and the other with fever of unknown origin for investigation. Both patients were managed with chemotherapy and intercalated intrathecal chemotherapy, with good clinical outcomes, without further evidence of clinical relapse. These cases along with a review of the literature highlight the key learning points in the difficulties in the diagnosis of this condition, and the appropriate use of random skin biopsy in patient suspected of having ILBCL, such as those with constitutional symptoms with otherwise negative malignancy screening, and unexplained neurological phenomena, especially if recurrent in nature.

A case of intravascular large B cell lymphoma with brain involvement mimicking progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy

Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) is a very rare form of extranodal lymphoma, characterized by the proliferation of neoplastic B cells within the lumen of small vessels. Due to its high aggressivity, for years the prognosis had been really poor with only anectodical cases of remission after traditional chemotherapy. More recently, new therapeutic protocols allowed a significant increase in overall survival. It can virtually involve every organ, being skin and central nervous system the most affected. The clinical presentation is often unspecific and insidious; therefore, diagnosis can be challenging. Tissue biopsy, in particular random deep skin biopsy, is the gold standard for definitive diagnosis. We describe the case of a 58-year-old woman with a previous diagnosis of myelofibrosis, who presented with a rapidly progressive neurological deterioration and a brain MRI suggestive of Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy. Due to the absence of BK and JC viruses in cerebrospinal fluid and the presence of severe myalgias and subcutaneous nodules, a skin and muscle biopsy was performed, allowing diagnosis of IVLBCL. We describe the diagnostic pitfalls of this case, briefly reviewing existing literature about IVLBCL.

Skin biopsy in the diagnosis of intravascular lymphoma: A retrospective diagnostic accuracy study

BACKGROUND

The yield of skin biopsies in the evaluation of intravascular lymphoma (IVL) is largely unknown in Western patients. Most data supporting this test come from Asian populations, in which both prevalence and disease presentation seem to differ.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the yield and diagnostic properties of skin biopsy in the evaluation of IVL.

METHODS

We reviewed skin biopsy pathology reports of 50 patients being evaluated for IVL to calculate the diagnostic yield of this test. An additional 6 patients, who underwent skin biopsies after the diagnosis of IVL was made by other means, were included to calculate the sensitivity and specificity of our index test.

RESULTS

Skin biopsy samples were positive for 5 of the 50 patients being investigated for IVL. Sensitivity was 50% and specificity was 100%.

LIMITATIONS

Only pathology reports containing IVL as an indication for the biopsy were retrieved. This might have excluded patients in whom the disease was considered but was not deemed likely enough to be listed as the indication for the test, inflating our estimative of skin biopsy yield.

CONCLUSION

A relatively high diagnostic yield was found in the evaluation of IVL among patients with a diverse presentation in a Western hospital.

Primary Central Nervous System Lymphomas: A Diagnostic Overview of Key Histomorphologic, Immunophenotypic, and Genetic Features

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is a rare form of extranodal non-Hodgkin lymphoma that primarily arises in the brain, spinal cord, leptomeninges, and vitreoretinal compartment of the eye. The term is sometimes used interchangeably with primary central nervous system diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (PCNS DLBCL) because DLBCL comprises a great majority (90–95%) of PCNSL. Although rare, other types of lymphomas can be seen in the central nervous system (CNS), and familiarity with these entities will help their recognition and further workup in order to establish the diagnosis. The latter is especially important in the case of PCNSL where procurement of diagnostic specimen is often challenging and yields scant tissue. In this review, we will discuss the most common types of primary lymphomas that can be seen in the CNS with emphasis on the diagnostic histomorphologic, immunophenotypic, and molecular genetic features. The differential diagnostic approach to these cases and potential pitfalls will also be discussed.

Interleukin-6-producing Intravascular Large B-cell Lymphoma with Lymphadenopathy Mimicking the Histology of Multicentric Castleman Disease

An inguinal lymph node biopsy of a woman with a one-month history of a progressive fever, fatigue, dyspnea, skin rash, and lymphadenopathy revealed a well-preserved basic structure, hyperplastic germinal centers, and an interfollicular region containing polyclonal plasma cell sheets, suggesting plasma cell-type multicentric Castleman disease (MCD). We initiated prednisolone and anti-interleukin (IL)-6 antibody (tocilizumab), without success. A biopsy specimen re-evaluation detected CD20-positive atypical large B cells infiltrating the small vessels within and around the lymph node and its capsule. We diagnosed her with intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL). Lymphoma cells were weakly positive for IL-6 by immunohistochemical staining. IL-6 from lymphoma cells may have caused the MCD-like presentation as a paraneoplastic etiology. Malignant lymphoma should be excluded before diagnosing MCD.

Going Skin Deep: Excavating a Diagnosis of Intravascular Large B Cell Lymphoma

A fever of unknown origin is often pursued diagnostically under the framework of infectious, rheumatologic, and neoplastic causes. When encephalopathy ensues, the differential diagnosis narrows, but can remain elusive, particularly when dealing with rare diseases. We present the case of a patient with fever of unknown origin and intermittent encephalopathy that spanned multiple hospital admissions and ultimately yielded a diagnosis of intravascular large B cell lymphoma complicated by hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. We review the varying presentations of this disease, when to consider this as a diagnosis, and how to most accurately make the diagnosis.

Limited Renal Intravascular Lymphoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) is a rare subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It is characterized by the proliferation of cancerous cells into the intraluminal space of the blood vessels. It has a low incidence rate of 0.095 cases per 1,000,000. The clinical presentation is insidious and unspecific, often delaying the diagnosis. IVLBCL can be diagnosed through body images and histopathology analysis. This neoplasm averages a 60% response rate to current chemotherapy treatment, favoring rituximab, and doxorubicin-based regimen if it is diagnosed in time. Here, we present the case of a 56-year-old man admitted to our hospital with a fever who was eventually diagnosed with IVLBCL. He presented to the consultation with anemia, fever, and splenomegaly. An infection panel, a bone marrow biopsy, and a PET-CT scan were performed and ruled out the possibility of infections and neoplasms. The patient later developed edematous syndrome. As a result, a renal biopsy was performed which tested positive for intravascular large B-cell lymphoma. Currently, the patient has been in complete remission for 33 months. Along with presenting this specific case, we also reviewed previously published cases of IVLBCL to illustrate the renal involvement of this pathology.

Analysis of clinicopathological features and prognostic factors of non-Hodgkin's intravascular large B-cell lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin's intravascular large B-cell lymphoma is a highly invasive extranodal lymphoma. The proliferating tumor cells invade the small vessels and capillaries of different organs. The clinical symptoms are atypical, there is lack of specificity, and the molecular and biological behaviors are not clear, thus, the present study aimed to improve the current understanding of non-Hodgkin's intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVL) and provide an accurate basis for clinical treatment and prognosis, by retrospectively analyzing and summarizing the clinicopathological features, immunohistochemical findings and molecular characteristics of 17 patients with IVL. The Kaplan-Meier method and log rank test were implemented to determine survival outcomes. Fisher's exact test was used to determine the association between clinicopathological features and the expression levels of Ki-67, c-Myc, B-cell lymphoma 6 (Bcl-6) and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), while multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to identify the independent risk factors that affect the survival rates of patients with IVL. P<0.05 was considered to indicate a statistically significant difference. Among the 17 patients with IVL, 13 cases (76.47%) occurred in the adrenal gland and four cases (23.53%) occurred on the skin demonstrated positive IgH gene rearrangement. FISH analysis indicated that cleavage of the c-Myc gene was closely associated with sex, hypertension status and tumor size, while cleavage of the Bcl-6 gene was closely associated with tumor size parameters. Overall, the results suggest that the Ki-67 proliferation index is an independent risk factor for the prognosis (survival time) of patients with IVL.

Asian variant of intravascular large B-cell lymphoma: a comparison of clinical features based on involvement of the central nervous system

BACKGROUND/AIMS

There are limited data about the influence of the central nervous system (CNS) involvement on the prognosis for patients with the Asian variant of intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL).

METHODS

We analyzed 46 patients who were diagnosed with IVLBCL between 2001 and 2018. All patients were treated with rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (R-CHOP).

RESULTS

CNS involvement was diagnosed by cerebrospinal fluid analysis (n = 6) and brain imaging (n = 5) in 11 patients at diagnosis, and four cases with CNS relapse were found. Thus, 15 patients had CNS involvement (15/46, 33%). The clinical characteristics were not different between patients with and without CNS involvement, but all patients with CNS involvement belonged to the high-risk group of CNS-International Prognostic Index (IPI). Thirty-one patients achieved a complete response (67%, 31/46) whereas eight patients showed disease progression and six patients died after the first or second cycle of R-CHOP. CNS-directed therapy such as high-dose methotrexate was combined with R-CHOP for patients with CNS involvement, and five patients were alive without relapse. The median overall survival of all patients was 45.0 months, and overall survival was not different according to the involvement of CNS.

CONCLUSION

The treatment outcome of patients with the Asian variant of IVLBCL is still not satisfactory. The prediction of CNS involvement based on the clinical features including CNS-IPI score might not serve to identify patients at high risk of CNS involvement, either. Thus, more effective strategies for diagnosis and treatment should be developed.

A Diagnostic Dilemma of Secondary Hemophagocytosis Lymphohistiocytosis in an Elderly Patient

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rapidly progressive fatal condition. Although well described in the pediatric population, cases of secondary HLH are seen in adolescents and young adults. In the elderly, HLH has been shown to have a poor prognosis. Owing to its varied presentation and multisystemic involvement, diagnosis is often delayed. Due to its high mortality, prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial. Here we present a case of secondary HLH in a 69-year-old male, who presented with fever for one week. Initial laboratory workup revealed a bicytopenia and elevated creatinine. He was initially treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics; however, a comprehensive infectious workup was negative. CT scan of the abdomen revealed splenomegaly. Further investigations revealed an elevated ferritin and triglycerides. Due to the constellation of findings, he was started on corticosteroids for concerns of HLH. Bone marrow biopsy was obtained, which revealed dysplastic changes and hemophagocytosis, consistent with HLH. This case highlights the diagnostic challenge and prognosis of HLH in the elderly population, suggesting that diagnosis and treatment should not be delayed for histological confirmation.

Hodgkin lymphoma-associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis-a dangerous disease

This study investigated the clinical characteristics of Hodgkin lymphoma-associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH-HL). Clinical data of 8 patients with HLH-HL and 20 non-HLH-HL patients were included. All eight HLH-HL patients tested positive for plasma Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-DNA and EBV-encoded small RNA (EBER), and six patients were positive for EBV-DNA in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Two out of the 20 non-HLH-HL patients were confirmed positive for EBER, and the remaining 18 patients were negative. Among the HLH-HL patients, five patients received ABVD (doxorubicin/bleomycin/vinblastine/dacarbazine) chemotherapy regimens in other hospitals, and their conditions were considered to be worse, for which reason they were transferred to our center, and three patients were treated with DEP (doxorubicin-etoposide-methylprednisolone) regimens to target HLH and were alive as of the writing of this article. Two patients were critically ill upon admission and were not able to undergo chemotherapy. Significant differences in survival time were observed between the HLH-HL and non-HLH-HL patients (P = 0.005). HL patients found positive for EBV (plasma/PBMCs EBV-DNA(+)/EBER(+)) may be more likely to develop HLH-HL. It may be beneficial to target HLH during the acute phase of HLH, followed by treating HL once the HLH condition has stabilized. HLH-HL patients have worse prognosis and higher mortality than non-HLH-HL patients.

Molecular Diagnostics in Lymphoid Neoplasms of the Central Nervous System

Primary lymphoid neoplasms of the central nervous system are rare tumors that span a wide range of histopathologic appearances and can overlap occasionally with non-neoplastic processes. Application of modern molecular techniques has not only begun to unravel their unique underlying biology but has also started to lay a valuable diagnostic and therapeutic framework for these frequently aggressive malignancies. This review summarizes the existing landscape of clinicopathologic and genomic features of lymphoid neoplasms that may arise primarily within the central nervous system.

Prognostic Value of Concurrent Expression of C-MYC and BCL2 in Intravascular Large B-Cell Lymphoma: A 10-Year Retrospective Study

Background

Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) is a variant of extranodal diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), characterized by the presence of a B-lymphoma cell in the lumina of small blood vessels or capillaries. Due to its extremely variable clinical manifestations, IVLBCL typically results in a delayed diagnosis and poor disease prognosis. Skin biopsy, particularly random skin biopsy, has shown a potential role in the diagnosis of IVLBCL. However, information of clinicopathological features in patients with IVLBCL diagnosed by skin biopsy is limited.

Objectives

To study the clinicopathological features in relation to immunohistochemical features and to identify prognostic factors in IVLBCL patients diagnosed by skin biopsy.

Materials and Methods

Clinical characteristics; laboratory, histological, and immunohistochemical findings; and therapeutic response of all biopsy-confirmed IVLBCL patients during the years 2008-2017 were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

The mean age was 67.4 (±9.8) years. Fever was the most common presenting symptom, accounting for 64.7%. Cutaneous and bone marrow involvement was found in 23.5% and 35.3% of patients, respectively. Patients receiving R-CHOP showed more favorable therapeutic outcome. C-MYC/BCL2 double expressors showed significantly higher incidence rate to mortality compared with nondouble expressors (p = 0.042). One-year and two-year overall survival rates were 67.2% and 53.8%, respectively.

Conclusions

Skin biopsy is an effective diagnostic method for IVLBCL. Concurrent expression of C-MYC and BCL2 may be a useful prognostic indicator and should be performed in order to predict the prognosis in IVLBCL patients.

Intravascular Large B-cell lymphoma: A case series and review of literatures

Background

Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) is a rare subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma with uncommon clinical presentations and poor prognosis. The purpose of this study is to report the clinical features and outcome of IVLBCL in a single institution of Taiwan.

Methods

Ten patients with IVLBCL diagnosed from June 2006 to January 2018 were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

The median age was 61 (range 39–88) years. The most common presentation was fever (90%), cytopenia (90%), and confusion (50%). For all patients, the median progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were 12.6 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.0–76.1) and 18.8 (95% CI 0–59.3) months, respectively. Six patients received rituximab combined chemotherapy, and the other one patient was treated with chemotherapy alone. Six of seven (85.7%) patients achieved complete response after chemotherapy. The median PFS and OS for six patients who completed treatment were not reached. Three-year PFS and OS rates were 80% and 75%, respectively.

Conclusion

Our study showed that patients might achieve durable remission after rituximab-based chemotherapy. The outcome of IVLBCL patients may further improve if early diagnosis and prompt treatment were made.

Concurrent mycosis fungoides and intravascular large B-cell lymphoma in a single patient

Mycosis fungoides (MF) is an indolent, uncommon, non-Hodgkin T-cell lymphoma of the skin. It classically presents with patches, plaques, and tumors and may rarely show spread to internal organs or bone marrow. Up to 7.5% of MF patients may be diagnosed with a second malignancy. Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) is an exceedingly rare non-Hodgkin B-cell lymphoma characterized by predominant growth of large neoplastic cells in the lumina of blood vessels. This case presents with an unusual confluence of two rare diagnoses, MF and IVLBCL, made more remarkable by the presence of both diagnoses on a single skin biopsy sample.

Primary lung intravascular large B-Cell lymphoma clinically mimicking sarcoidosis: A rare case report and review of literature

We present a case of a 73-year-old male who initially presented with night sweats, intermittent fever, worsening dry cough and shortness of breath. CT scans revealed atelectasis and calcified mediastinal lymphadenopathy, raising a suspicion for sarcoidosis. Multiple lung biopsies were performed. Microscopically, atypical lymphocytes were identified within capillaries, small arteries and veins. These lymphocytes were large with prominent nucleoli. Immunohistochemical staining demonstrated tumor cells positive for CD20, CD79a, Pax-5, CD10 and Mum-1, while negative for CD3, cytokeratin, S100, and CD34. LDH serum level was increased (480 IU/L). Extra pulmonary lymphoma was not detected elsewhere in the patient. These findings support the diagnosis of primary lung intravascular large B cell lymphoma (IVLBCL). Literature review of 52 cases demonstrated occurrence of primary lung IVBCL in patients between the ages (35–85) with a slight male predominance (1.167:1). The most common clinical presentation was fever associated with dyspnea.

A Western Case of Intravascular Large B-Cell Lymphoma as Unusual Cause of Persistent Fever

Fever of unknown origin (FUO) is a common and challenging clinical condition that can be referred, among others, to infections, drug's effects, various inflammatory disorders, and cancers. Among the latter, lymphomas can indeed cause fever, which is therefore accounted as a lymphoma-related sign in patients' staging. Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) is a very rare tumor, characterized by lymphoma cell accumulation within sinusoids and, despite a very aggressive course, the evidence of this disease is scarce. Two variants are currently recognized, respectively, occurring in either Western (mainly characterized by neurological symptoms and skin involvement) or Eastern countries (with hemophagocytic syndrome, bone marrow, spleen, and liver involvement). We describe an atypical and unprecedented IVLBCL patient, presenting with pronounced features of Eastern cases as well as skin involvement. Due to the scant amount of neoplastic cells, the diagnosis was very challenging, with FUO being the first and for a certain time unique clinical sign. Although lymphoma was suspected, the lack of evidence for neoplastic cells delayed the final diagnosis. Eventually, only autopsy revealed the extensive involvement of different organs and tissues.

Unusual and Fatal Case of an Undiagnosed Intravascular Large B-cell Lymphoma: The Oncologist's Great Imitator†

Intravascular lymphoma (IVL) is a rare subtype of extranodal lymphomas that is characterized by the selective growth of neoplastic cells within the lumen of small vessels. Authors document the case of an unexpected death caused by an undiagnosed intravascular large B-cell lymphoma with multi-organ involvement, which had initially manifested as an infection and then as an unclarified central nervous system pathology. Histological examination showed a diffuse intravascular large B-cell brain lymphoma with prominent cerebral involvement. The relevance of the case report reveals the importance of an autopsy of an extremely rare and threatening pathology that in most cases is diagnosed only postmortem. As a result, the role of the forensic pathologist becomes particularly important. When specifically performing an in-depth autopsy evaluation with a specific histologic analysis, it is possible to identify the intravascular lymphoma and declare a more accurate cause of death.

Diagnosis of intravascular large B cell lymphoma: novel insights into clinicopathological features from 42 patients at a single institution over 20 years

This study aimed to clarify the comprehensive clinical, laboratory, pathological and imaging features of intravascular large B‐cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) using data on 42 IVLBCL patients diagnosed at our hospital over the past 20 years. The majority of patients were diagnosed via random skin biopsy (29/42, 69·0%) followed by bone marrow biopsy alone (8/42, 19·0%). Characteristic features included persistent fever (41/42, 97·6%), decreased performance status (≥2) (100%), hypoxaemia (32/40, 80·0%), impaired consciousness (19/42, 45·2%), hypoalbuminemia (42/42, 100%) and extreme elevation of lactate dehydrogenase and soluble interleukin 2 receptor levels. Brain magnetic resonance imaging showed abnormal findings in 32/37 patients (86·4%). Hyperintense lesion in the pons was a peculiar finding that was unrelated to the neurological deficits. Positron emission tomography‐computed tomography revealed a high incidence of bone marrow (26/34, 76·5%), spleen (19/34, 55·9%) and adrenal gland (9/34, 26·5%) involvement. Neurolymphomatosis was noted in 6 patients during the course of the disease. About 60% of IVLBCL patients in whom in vivo diagnosis was possible survived more than 5 years with combination chemotherapy. Our observations provide additional insight into the diagnosis of IVLBCL and indicate that early disease recognition via random skin biopsy combined with imaging, enables in vivo diagnosis of the disease and improved survival for many patients.

CD30 expression in a case of intravascular large B-cell lymphoma, cutaneous variant

Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) is one of the rarest B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL), with an aggressive clinical behavior and a poor prognosis; in fact, its treatment is still an unmet clinical need, with a 3-year overall survival (OS) rate of 60% to 81%, and a central nervous system relapse rate of 25%. It usually presents as a widespread disease at diagnosis, with multi-organ involvement. Previously considered as a diffuse large B-cell lymphoma variant, it now represents a different extranodal large B-cell lymphoma entity in the last WHO Classification of tumors of hematopoietic and lymphoid tissues. We hereby describe the case of an 84-year-old Italian woman with an IVLBCL, cutaneous variant, who suffered from early relapse after R-COMP chemotherapy regimen, and was therefore treated with a palliative metronomic chemotherapy. Interestingly, neoplastic cells showed CD30 expression at relapse. CD30 positivity has never been reported in this disease so far, and its expression is known to be involved in NF-kB activation. CD30 expression may be further studied as for prognostic and therapeutic significance; in fact, new therapeutic strategies, such as antibody-drug conjugate targeting CD30, are now available.

[The value of healthy skin biopsy in the diagnosis of intravascular B-cell lymphoma: A case report and systematic literature review]

BACKGROUND

Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (ivLBCL) is a rare blood dyscrasia that is difficult to diagnose. Healthy skin biopsies may prove useful in diagnosis of the condition. Herein we report a case of ivLBCL diagnosed using this type of examination, and we provide a literature review to determine the sensitivity of such testing.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A 67-year-old woman was hospitalised for unexplained prolonged fever (UPF) and impaired general well-being. Laboratory tests revealed inflammatory syndrome, elevated LDH>2000IU/L, hepatic cytolysis and decreased prothrombin time at 47 %. Analysis for infection and medical imaging ruled out both an infectious or inflammatory origin and solid tumour. A healthy skin biopsy enabled confirmation of the diagnosis of ivLBCL.

DISCUSSION

This clinical case illustrates the value of healthy skin biopsy in establishing a diagnosis of ivLBCL in patients hospitalised for UPF. Following a systematic literature review in PubMed/Medline, we included eight studies involving at least three patients designed to assess the value of healthy skin biopsy in the diagnosis of ivLBCL. The diagnostic sensitivity of this approach ranged from 67% to 100%, with a sensitivity of 100% being seen in four of the eight studies. Details of the biopsy sites were available in three studies and diagnostic sensitivity was similar overall between samples taken from the thigh, abdomen and arms.

CONCLUSION

Healthy skin biopsy sampling from at least two sites constitutes a sensitive and relatively non-invasive procedure for early diagnosis of ivLBCL.

Intravascular B-large cell lymphoma: an unexpected diagnosis of an incidental adrenal mass

Adrenal incidentalomas originally defined as tumors discovered serendipitously in the course of diagnostic evaluation or follow-up of unrelated disorders, may occasionally pose serious diagnostic challenges. Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) may be a rare example of such a case. We present an IVLBCL confined to the adrenal gland in a 52-year-old man focusing on its diagnostic and therapeutic aspects. On endocrine work up, the tumor was hormonally inactive and exhibited inconclusive imaging characteristics without signs of locoregional spread. After a left laparoscopic adrenalectomy, histologic sections revealed the presence of tumor cells inside dilated, thin-walled vascular spaces. Immunohistochemical stains confirmed the diagnosis of IVLBCL. The patient was then referred to a Hematology Unit for further staging and treatment and received six cycles of R-CHOP. Despite the fact that IVLBCL carries a dismal prognosis our patient remains alive and in complete remission 6 years after the initial diagnosis.

Intravascular NK/T-cell lymphoma, Epstein-Barr virus positive with multiorgan involvement: a clinical dilemma

Background

Intravascular lymphoma is a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma mostly of B-cell lineage. A few cases of intravascular lymphoma have been found to be of NK/T-cell origin, mainly affecting the skin and central nervous system.

Case presentation

A 54-year-old Caucasian man sought care because of a 2 weeks history of jaundice and intermittent fever, not responsive to antibiotics and antipyretics. Laboratory tests showed low blood oxygen concentration and pancytopenia. Serum microbiological tests were negative. Computerized tomography (CT) scan revealed hepatosplenomegaly and diffuse ground-glass opacities in both lungs without interlobular septal thickening. Despite oxygen therapy, the clinical conditions rapidly deteriorated leading to death 3 days after admission. Autopsy revealed a multiorgan involvement by an Epstein-Barr virus positive NK/T-cell lymphoma, strikingly growing within the blood vessel lumina, in absence of skin lesions.

Conclusions

The current case highlights the pathological features of this rare entity, the protean clinical presentation of which is often misleading, resulting in delayed diagnosis and treatment.

Pure intravascular recurrence of CD5-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma primarily arising from the nasal cavities

Background

CD5-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVL) are recognized as rare subsets of large B-cell lymphoma with poor prognosis. These two categories have similar clinicopathological features suggesting that they might overlap.

Case presentation

We present a case of a 72-year-old man with submental tumors. Positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) showed tumors in the nasal and paranasal region and multiple submental and jugular swollen lymph nodes with abnormal uptake of ¹⁸F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG). Histology of biopsy from nasal tumors showed diffuse infiltration of large lymphoid cells, which showed positive expressions for CD20, CD79a, CD5 and negative for CD3 on immunohistochemistry. Thus, a CD5-positive DLBCL was diagnosed. After administration of 8 cycles of R-THPCOP (rituximab, pirarubicin, cyclophosphamide, vincristine and prednisolone), complete remission was achieved. Eight months after the first chemotherapy dose, local recurrence occurred. After salvage chemotherapy, nasal and paranasal tumors and lymph node swelling disappeared on PET/CT images, although the patient suffered from respiratory disturbance. A random skin biopsy revealed IVL, which was consistent with intravascular recurrence of CD5-positive DLBCL. Bone marrow smears showed hemophagocytosis.

Conclusion

We present a rare case of primary CD5-positive DLBCL that relapsed as pure IVL after chemotherapy. Our case suggests that CD5-positive DLBCL is closely related to IVL.